Electric Vehicle Revolution and Sustainable Development: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities in Karnataka
Abstract
The transition toward electric mobility is a significant shift in India’s transportation sector, driven by the need to address environmental degradation, energy insecurity, and the Sustainable Development Goals. This study examines the role of electric vehicles (EVs) in advancing sustainable development in Karnataka by analysing adoption drivers, constraints, and policy implications. A descriptive-cum-inferential design combined primary survey data from 300 respondents across five districts (Bengaluru Urban, Mysuru, Mandya, Tumakuru, and Shivamogga), selected via stratified random sampling, with secondary data from government reports and policy documents. Data were collected between February and March 2026 using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire, and analysed using IBM SPSS Statistics software, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and chi-square tests of association. Environmental concern (32%), fuel cost savings (28%), and government incentives (18%) emerged as the leading adoption drivers, while high purchase cost (30%) and inadequate charging infrastructure (27%) were the principal barriers. Regression analysis showed that income, awareness, and environmental concern jointly explained 62% of the variance in adoption likelihood (R² = 0.62, p < 0.001), with environmental concern the strongest predictor (β = 0.46). District-wise adoption ranged from 50% (Mandya, Shivamogga) to 80% (Bengaluru Urban), a significant urban–rural disparity (χ² = 17.32, p < 0.01). EVs hold substantial potential to reduce emissions, improve energy security, and generate green employment in Karnataka, but equitable adoption requires expanded rural charging infrastructure, targeted financial incentives, sustained awareness campaigns, and integration with renewable energy sources. Keywords: Electric Vehicles, Sustainable Development, EV Adoption, Karnataka, Clean Mobility